MusicNT presents Patsy Coleman
2019 has been huge for local singer-songwriter Patsy Coleman. With an EP due for release soon, and baby number two on the way, she’s showing no sign of slowing down. Music NT sat down for a chat with Patsy to hear all about the year that was.
2019 has been massive… Has there been a highlight for you this year?
It has been an epic year but the highlight for me is the Desert Harmony Festival (DHF) run by Barkly Regional Arts. Going home to Tennant Creek to perform was amazing – almost like my whole life lead up to that moment. It was great.
Speaking of Desert Harmony Festival, how did the collaboration with the Opera Australia Orchestra come about?
DHF works with the Opera Australia Orchestra every two years to bring an opera to the desert. Part of that is collaborating with artists to bring songs to life. It was a wonderful opportunity to perform with them!
You’re a relative ’newcomer’ to the stage. Any tips for emerging musicians?
I have been blessed to have met some brilliant people through MusicNT and Barkly Regional Arts. None of it would have been possible without this networking and, most of all, drive. I’ve put my foot to the floor to chase this dream – if I have one tip, it’s that no one else will chase your dreams. Do it yourself, now, not tomorrow.
You’ve been working with Winanjjikari Music Centre on your EP, but live in Darwin – do you still have close ties to the Barkly Region?
I do, and there is no one else I would want to do this EP with. The desert and Tennant Creek will always be home – they just understand my story and what I wanted in this EP. I met Jeffrey McLaughlin many years ago and he has been great to work with. The same goes with one of my biggest inspirations Warren H Williams, my mentor on this journey, him being at Barkly Arts at the time it tied it all in nicely.
Are there any other NT artists you would like to work with in the future?
Oh that is hard there are so many amazing artists in the NT. If you made me narrow it down, honestly, my heart is country and I adore Dave Garnham and the Reasons to Live. A collaboration with them would be epic.
Lastly, any advice you’ve received you’d like to share?
Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.
